Orthotics for Exercise

A lot of people ask if they can use their orthotics while they exercise. The answer is yes, it is recommended to wear them, but there can be a few exceptions. In general, those exceptions are during exercise where you are not wearing shoes.

Orthotics are great to use for exercise because of the added stress on the body. There is more force going through the feet and legs, which can increase the chances of pain developing. Orthotics help to reduce stress and strain, which reduces and prevents pain.

Types of Orthotics Used for Exercise

There are many different styles and materials that can be used to make up your custom foot orthotic. The assessment is an important part to determine what style is most appropriate, and what combination of materials would provide the best results.

Orthotic Shell for Exercise

The shell of the orthotic is a good place to start. A plastic shell can look harder, but can provide some give and “bounce-back” when exercising. This allows you to absorb shock, but also utilize this energy. A plastic shell typically lasts longer as well.

A foam shell can feel softer on your feet and absorb some shock, but the energy is dissipated and can’t be utilized. In exercises where utilizing this energy isn’t important, a softer shell can be a great option.

Both shells can be used for exercise, but they can be carefully selected based on the type of exercise.

Top Cover Choice for Exercise

The cover on top of the orthotic can be another strategic choice to improve the orthotic for exercise.

For exercise or sports that require lots of side-to-side movement, a cover that grips may be a better choice. In exercises where a little bit of motion can be tolerated, or where blisters are trying to be prevented, a cover with some give can be a better choice.

Other Features for Exercise

The type of exercise can change what types of features are put on the orthotic. For example, adding extra heel correction won’t be helpful for cycling, because all the force is through the ball of the foot. Whereas a runner that heel strikes may benefit from extra heel correction.

Same or Different Orthotic for Each Exercise Type?

In the majority of cases, the same orthotic can be used for every type of exercise. The orthotics can be optimized for different types of exercise, but the average person may not notice the difference.

Fine tuning orthotics for each type of exercise can be done when small changes can make a big difference in performance. Those in high level sports may find a benefit from different types of orthotics for different activities. This is because different covers and types of corrections may be noticeable when fine tuning their performance.

Another reason for using different types of orthotics for different types of exercise, is when the same orthotic does not fit into every shoe. For example, a ski boot, skates or soccer cleats may not have as much space inside to fit a thicker orthotics. While a running shoe, may have more space to add a thicker orthotic.

When not to wear orthotics while exercising

In barefoot exercises, an orthotic can’t be worn because there is no shoe to wear them in. Some examples of these are yoga, beach volleyball and certain types of dances. Dance really depends on the type of dance because some are barefoot, and some have different types of shoes. Not all shoes in dance may work with the orthotic. A ballet shoe needs the flexibility of the foot to do the move properly, so an orthotic may not work in that type of shoe.

For those types of exercise that an orthotic doesn’t work, it’s best to wear the orthotic as much as possible on a daily basis, and leave the orthotic out for that specific exercise.

Conclusion

For the majority of cases, orthotics are very beneficial to wear when exercising. They can be made differently for different types of exercise, but one pair can be used for all exercise.

If you have any questions about your orthotics and your specific exercise, feel free to book an appointment!